“What’s going well?” It’s the question that changes everything — or so says motivational speaker Greg Bell. He believes that we automatically default to addressing problems or focusing on what is going wrong — but we don’t spend enough time (sometimes any time!) to consider what we are doing right. Doing so can shift attitudes and mindsets and help people develop a more positive perspective — thus the power of the question.
In my work with organizations (as well as in my own life!), I have found Bell’s premise to be true. Groups typically focus on the problems or barriers rather than their accomplishments. Managers fail to take even a moment to celebrate successes before moving on to the next issue at hand. People lament over what needs to be done or what else they could have done instead of embracing the good things they did do.
Test out Bell’s theory and make it a point to ask yourself “What is Going Well?” when you’re in your next meeting or as you reflect on your day. The answers you come up with may pleasantly surprise you.
Thanks, Mike!
